The seventh and final add-on pack for the PC megahit The Sims, this Makin' Magic release follows a fairly similar template, which will continue to keep fans of the franchise happy, and perhaps those untouched by it a little baffled. Nonetheless, there's a good argument here for stating that Makin' Magic is the best add-on of the lot. It requires a copy of the original game to play, and the idea this time is that your pretend community find themselves imbued with various magical powers to explore, along with ingredients to collect and mix up, magical quests to go on and some mysterious non-player characters to contend with. As you'd expect, you also get new locations and new items to play around with. The Magic Town, for instance, is well worth a visit, and you can pop there whenever you like. There are magic shows that can be performed here, and effectively there's street theatre to enjoy. It's a fun and quirky add-on pack, though it might not appeal to those who like things a little more based on reality. However, the developers here have applied a subtle and warm sense of humour, and it rubs off as you explore the Makin' Magic pack. Ultimately, you can't really describe a seventh add-on to a product as downright essential. It isn't, and everyone from the developers right down to the ardent fans of The Sims know it. It is, however, entertaining and good fun, and offers a fair bit extra for the outlay. You might not need it, but you're sure to enjoy it. --Simon Brew

Features:- Your Sims can now harness the supernatural, casting playful or mischievous spells- New Magic Town carnival-themed location; customize carnival rides- Includes making, gathering, and questing for ingredients to brew magic spell recipes- Unlock spells and create new ones; every spell has a unique backfire- Over 175 new items and a host of quirky new characters